Occupational Therapy

Occupational Therapy

ViewFinder offers low vision optometry, prescription low vision glasses, optical and electronic magnification as well as daily living aids. We can now offer the services of an occupational therapist to help the patient. This provides "one stop shopping" for our patients and ensures the continuum of care. The Rehabilitation division will see patients in the greater Phoenix area from Sun City to Apache Junction and Casa Grande. Physicians from other practices will be able to refer directly to the Low Vision Rehabilitation service with a written order. Physicians are welcome to call with questions and will be provided the necessary information for referral purposes. At their request, prescription forms will be made available.

Occupational therapy is uniquely qualified to see our low vision patients. They are skilled to evaluate the patient in all areas of function: cognition, psychosocial, functional mobility, strength and coordination and activities of daily living. If a patient has other diagnoses such as stroke or arthritis, the occupational therapist is well qualified to address any issues that may affect their functional independence.

Because occupational therapy is a skilled rehabilitation service, the evaluation and treatment sessions are covered by Medicare and third party insurers. There is often no cost to the patient for the services. If you have patients who would benefit from an occupational therapy evaluation or consult, please do not hesitate to call. Contact Janet Menke, OTR/L, Director of Low Vision Program at the Mesa clinic at 480-924-8755 or the Sun City clinic 623-583-2800.

Outpatient Services and HOME VISITS from The ViewFinder Occupational therapists are available.

Services during the home visit can included but are not limited to:

Home Safety Recommendations
Lighting Recommendations
Reading Training
Visual Skills Training
Home Mobility training
Cooking Safety Recommendations
Environmental Adaptation
Writing and financial management adaptations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Occupational Therapy?

Occupational Therapy is a specialized health care discipline that enables persons to do the day to day activities that are important to them despite impairments or activity limitations. Occupational therapists work with persons with various physical disabilities and disorders in multiple settings, including hospitals, assisted living facilities, physician practices, schools and the home. Occupational therapists with specialized training in low vision are an important part of the Low Vision team.

How can a low vision patient benefit from Occupational Therapy?

An occupational therapist will evaluate and assess any changes in the functional performance of the patient impacted by the loss of visual function. The uniqueness of occupational therapy in low vision is they can address other physical or cognitive issues the patient may be experiencing. They will provide treatment and teach compensatory techniques so the patient can use their available vision; train in adaptive techniques and magnification devices to maintain or increase independence in every day activities. They will provide services in the clinic and the home environment to help the patient maximize their independence.

Is there a charge for Occupational Therapy services?

Medicare and most insurance plans recognize the benefit of Low Vision Rehabilitation and will reimburse for services provided by an occupational therapist.

I think I know someone who could benefit from Occupational Therapy. Who do I contact?

We would be happy to help you! Just call one of our offices and we will give you the information you need. To see an occupational therapist, a patient must have a physician referral. This can be from your Optometrist, Ophthalmologist, primary physician, or nurse practitioner. We recommend the patient to be seen by an Optometrist who specializes in Low Vision first for a complete evaluation of their vision loss. The occupational therapist will work closely with your doctor to provide you with the best care.